(Facebook/Melfort Fire and Rescue)

By Mat Barrett

Melfort Fire and Rescue

Melfort Fire responds to small fires on Highway 41A

May 8, 2019 | 3:20 PM

Melfort Fire and Rescue responded to a few fires on Wednesday, May 8, just outside of the city.

Just before noon, the department responded to four fires burning in the east ditch of Highway 41A. Fortunately, there were some Good Samaritans who extinguished most of the fires. Fire Chief Jason Everitt said their job was mainly to keep things from flaming up again.

“We went and wet down the three spots and then the fourth one re-kindled,” Everitt told northeastNOW. “So it started on fire again, so we were able to hit that one with some water and knock it down. So, we’ve got four burns in the space of about maybe half or three-quarters of a mile.”

As for the cause of the fires, Everitt said they have not determined the cause yet, but they aren’t very concerned.

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“It could have very well been a catalytic converter, it could’ve been some hot exhaust, or even an ATV or a dirt bike going through the ditch just with some carbon coming out of the exhaust,” Everitt said. “So it doesn’t appear to be intentional, and quite likely accidental.”

Everitt said there is some good moisture underground right now, but that does not mean fires are out of the woods.

“The fuel is on the surface, so the grasses that are on the surface haven’t had a chance to grow and green up this year,” he said. “They still are very dry and very prone to ignition, and very quick and fast burning.”

Everitt added members aren’t worried about the fire situation right now, but they are prepared, and are aware of the current conditions. He also thanked the drivers who stopped and were able to put out the fires.

There was no damage or injuries as a result of the fires.

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mat.barrett@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @matbarrett6